For my last vote, I nominate
The Man Who Would Be King by Rudyard Kipling.
The Law, as quoted, lays down a fair conduct of life, and one not easy to follow. I have been fellow to a beggar again and again under circumstances which prevented either of us finding out whether the other was worthy. I have still to be brother to a Prince, though I once came near to kinship with what might have been a veritable King and was promised the reversion of a Kingdom— army, law-courts, revenue and policy all complete. But, to-day, I greatly fear that my King is dead, and if I want a crown I must go and hunt it for myself.
Kindle:
https://www.mobileread.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=195218
ePub:
https://www.mobileread.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=195217